Shih Tzu are one of the most popular breeds of small dogs. They are known for their cheerful and friendly personalities, as well as their long, luxurious coats. While the breed is generally easy to care for, they do require regular grooming to keep their coats healthy and looking their best. In this article, we will discuss the specific grooming needs of the Shih Tzu, including what type of coat care is necessary, how often the dog should be groomed, and what type of products are recommended. With the right grooming routine, you can keep your Shih Tzu looking, smelling, and feeling its best.
Regular Grooming
Table of Contents
Shih Tzu are a charming breed of small dogs with a fuzzy, long coat. As with any breed, regular grooming is necessary for their overall health and hygiene. Although Shih Tzu are considered an easy breed to groom, it still takes some effort and regular maintenance.
Brushing
Brushing is the most important part of Shih Tzu grooming. It should be done at least three times a week, but more often is better. Brushing helps to remove dirt, debris, and excess hair from the coat and skin. You can use a slicker brush or a bristle brush to brush your Shih Tzu’s coat. Start at the head and work your way down the body, gently brushing in the direction of the fur. When brushing, be sure to get the undercoat, which is the soft, fluffy fur that covers the skin. This is the fur that tends to get matted and tangled.
Bathing
Shih Tzu should be bathed at least once a month. This will help to keep their coat clean and healthy. When bathing, use a mild shampoo formulated for dogs. Gently lather the shampoo onto the fur and then rinse thoroughly. It is important to make sure all of the shampoo is rinsed out of the fur, as any residue can cause skin irritation. After the bath, you can use a blow dryer on the lowest setting to dry the coat.
Trimming
Shih Tzu do not need to be trimmed very often, but it is a good idea to trim their fur every few months. This will help to keep their coat looking neat and tidy. Start by brushing the fur thoroughly and then use scissors to trim away any matted or tangled fur. It is important to be gentle and to only trim a small amount of fur at a time. Be careful to avoid cutting the skin.
Eyes and Ears
It is important to keep the eyes and ears of your Shih Tzu clean. Use a damp cloth to wipe away any dirt or debris from the eyes. You can also use an ear cleaning solution to clean the ears. Be sure to follow the instructions on the package carefully.
Nails
Shih Tzu should have their nails trimmed regularly. It is best to do this monthly. Use a nail clipper designed for dogs and be sure to avoid cutting into the quick. If you are unsure how to trim your Shih Tzu’s nails, it is best to have a groomer or vet do it for you.
Conclusion
Shih Tzu are a wonderful breed of small dogs. They require regular grooming to keep their coats clean and healthy. This includes brushing, bathing, trimming, cleaning the eyes and ears, and trimming the nails. With proper care and maintenance, your Shih Tzu will stay healthy and happy.
## Common Myths about Shih Tzu Grooming
Myth 1: Shih Tzus require a lot of grooming.
Fact: While Shih Tzus do need regular grooming, the amount of grooming that they require is not as much as many people think. Regular brushing, occasional trimming of the fur, and occasional bathing are all that is typically needed to keep a Shih Tzu looking its best.
Myth 2: Shih Tzus should have their hair kept long at all times.
Fact: Although some Shih Tzus may look best with long hair, it is not necessary to keep their hair long all the time. In fact, keeping the fur short or trimmed can help reduce the amount of grooming that is needed.
Myth 3: All Shih Tzus have the same grooming needs.
Fact: While all Shih Tzus do require some amount of grooming, the specific grooming needs of any individual Shih Tzu can vary depending on its age, health, and lifestyle. It is important to consult with a professional groomer to determine the best grooming plan for your Shih Tzu.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I groom my Shih Tzu?
Answer: Shih Tzus have a thick, long coat so regular grooming is necessary. Depending on the individual dog’s coat, it’s recommended to groom your Shih Tzu every 4-8 weeks.
What type of grooming does a Shih Tzu require?
Answer: Shih Tzus require regular brushing and combing to keep their coats healthy and tangle-free. Nail trimming should also be done regularly, as well as ear cleaning and bathing as needed. If desired, the coat can be clipped and styled, though this should be done by a professional groomer.
Conclusion
Shih Tzu are a lovely breed of small dogs with a long coat that needs regular grooming. Brushing, bathing, trimming, cleaning the eyes and ears, and trimming the nails are all important parts of Shih Tzu grooming. It is best to brush the coat at least three times a week, and bathe the dog once a month. Trim the fur every few months, and clean the eyes and ears regularly. Trim the nails once a month. With proper care and maintenance, your Shih Tzu will stay healthy and happy.
